Head of Radiology Physics
Closing date: 15 April 2026
We are looking for an enthusiastic Clinical Scientist with MPE and RPA accreditations and a background in providing scientific leadership and support in Radiology Physics.
Note: MPE accreditation is essential for this role. Candidates close to submitting a portfolio for RPA accreditation within an agreed time frame may be considered.
Radiology Physics is part of the Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering Department. It supports a wide range of Diagnostic Radiology facilities, including CT, Mammography, Cardiac and the Kent Interventional Radiology Centre. We offer opportunities for career development within a vibrant, progressive and supportive team.
Main duties of the job
* Delegate day‑to‑day scientific, technical, clinical and regulatory aspects of the Radiology Physics service.
* Delegate day‑to‑day managerial aspects of the Radiology Physics service in conjunction with the operational lead.
* Act as the lead Medical Physics Expert under the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017 (IR(ME)R 2017) for Diagnostic Radiology, leading the equipment assessment program, including specification, acceptance testing, commissioning, quality assurance and optimisation.
* Lead investigations of complex radiation dosimetry issues and advise on associated risks.
* Calculate dose and risk in the event of planned, unintended or accidental exposures, including to the unborn child, and advise clinicians.
* Provide or oversee specialist radiation protection teaching and training to staff groups and act as the training lead for STP and Route 2 within the section.
* Serve as appointed Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) under the Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017 (IRR 2017) for EKHUFT.
* Improve delivery of Radiology Physics services and conduct research and development.
About us
East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest hospital trusts in England, with five hospitals and community clinics serving a local population of around 800,000 people. Our vision is “great healthcare from great people” and our values emphasise caring, safety, respect and confidence.
We are looking for compassionate people to join our improvement journey.
Visa sponsorship: Applicants requiring a Certificate of Sponsorship must declare this on the application form. We sponsor Skilled Worker Visas only for eligible roles.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Training
* 1st or 2nd class honours degree in Physics or closely related subject.
* IPEM‑accredited MSc in Medical Physics, MSc in Medical Imaging or relevant higher degree.
* HCPC registration as a Clinical Scientist.
* Corporate Membership of IPEM or equivalent professional body.
* Inclusion on RPA2000 list of Core Competence to act as a Medical Physics Expert (MPE) under IR(ME)R17.
* Certificate of Competence to act as a Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) under IRR17.
* Ph.D. in a relevant field.
* Chartered Physicist (CPhys) or Chartered Scientist (CSci).
* HSS registration or necessary experience to obtain it.
* Chartered Radiation Protection Professional (CRadP).
Skills and Experience
* Highly specialised practical experience in Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation Protection.
* Knowledge of budget holding and financial resource management.
* Specialised knowledge and practical experience of measuring performance and radiological safety of advanced X‑ray imaging equipment.
* Experience with dose‑measurement techniques of ionising radiation in radiography, fluoroscopy, cardiology, CT, mammography and dental.
* Understanding of patient and staff risks from ionising radiation and required precautions.
* Ability to supervise staff in clinical and scientific practice.
* Experience applying legislation, national standards and professional guidelines.
* Experience working in teams and auditing others.
* Experience of service provision.
* Excellent communication of complex information orally and in writing.
* Analytical skills to interpret complex data and determine causes of errors.
* Ability to produce detailed reports and present papers at conferences.
* Manual dexterity for sophisticated scientific equipment.
* Ability to develop electronic documents, spreadsheets and clinical applications.
* Teaching, training and supervising skills, including STP/Route 2 trainees.
* Negotiating and influencing skills.
* Proficiency in Quality Systems and risk‑management systems.
Governance
* Understanding of incident reporting pathways in diagnostic imaging.
* Participation in Radiation Protection Committees, the Trust Radiation Modalities Group and the Trust Radiation Advisory Committee.
Personal and Professional Attributes
* Awareness of risks associated with incorrect calibration, misuse or failure of equipment.
* Strong analytical and reasoning skills.
* Concentration for long periods and flexibility in workload management.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Other Requirements
* Awareness and adherence to the Trust’s Vision, Mission and Values.
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check for any previous convictions.
East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust
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